Bill Belichick Defends Confrontation With Replacement Ref

Before Sunday’s games the NFL sent out a memo telling players and coaches to stop complaining about the replacement refs. It doesn’t look like New England Patriots coach Bill Belichick got that memo. After the Pats’ loss to the Baltimore Ravens last night Belichick grabbed one of the temporary officials.

Making contact with a ref is a big no-no in the NFL and Belichick could face a fine over his actions. The Patriots coach said that he was just trying to get some clarification on the final play.

Belichick said:

“When the game was over, I went out, and I was really looking for an explanation from the officials as to whether or not the play was under review. I did try to get the official’s attention as he was coming off the field to ask that, but I really wasn’t able to do that. I have never meant any disrespect or in any way tried to abuse or be disrespectful to the officials and the job that they do. I’m trying to get an explanation for obviously an important call, play, in that game. That’s the number one thing between coaches and officials. It’s always at the forefront. It’s just communication of what’s going on, of what’s happening.”

According to Sports Illustrated, the NFL is currently reviewing Belichick’s actions.It’s possible that the Pats coach gets suspended but NFL News reports that it’s much more likely that Belichick gets a fine.